A successful student will be able to understand the elements of music and as applied to music therapy.

A successful student will be able to demonstrate an understanding of the historical origins and core tenets of the music therapy profession.

Description -

Introduction to the field of music therapy and the creative powers of sound. Survey the history of the American Music Therapy Association as applied by practicing music therapists. Study diverse styles of music including classical, jazz, blues, pop, hip-hop, new age and world music used as a transformative force to enhance social, emotional, educational, behavioral development and pain management. Apply music therapy concepts to compose and produce original music. Develop music making skills with drumming, group songwriting, lyric analysis, guided relaxation, movement, improvisation and original compositions integrated with the latest music software technologies including Pro Tools and Virtual Instruments. Study prevention of injury and maintenance of health for musicians and performing artists. Survey careers in the music therapy industry including degrees, certifications and multi-media production applications.

Course Objectives -

The student will be able to:

Describe historical origins of the field and profession of music therapy.

Explain the aesthetic, technical, social, economic, and political contexts that influence music and health from ancient times into the 21st century.

Understand the components of music and their relation to music therapy.

Identify the basic elements of music therapy treatment processes.

Understand the scientific research methods and appreciate the arts as music is intentionally used as medical intervention in music therapy.

Engage in active and passive music making experiences and develop written analyses of these experiences.

Demonstrate ability to plan music applications to meet a variety of music therapy goals and objectives for children, adolescents and adults.

Music therapy methods, techniques, materials, and equipment with their appropriate applications. (Lec, Lab)

The philosophical, psychological, physiological, and sociological bases for the use of music as therapy. (Lec, Lab)

Use of music applications to meet a variety of music therapy goals and objectives including drumming, song-writing, lyric analysis, guided relaxation, movement and improvisation. (Lec, Lab)

Reviewing the work of musicians-physicians and music therapy research in medical literature. (Lec, Lab)

Discussing the creative power of sound, and the relationship of the history, theory, and methodologies of music and health in international health care settings. (Lec, Lab)

Apply the art and science of music therapy in assessing the effectiveness of therapeutic interventions. (Lec, Lab)

Examples of music therapy involvement presented in class spanning cultures and nationalities, including choices of music, programming activities, and samples of client responses. (Lec, Lab)

Composing, arranging and producing music according to music therapy and sound healing principles. (Lec, Lab)

Methods of Evaluation -

Quizzes and Exams on reading material and online video lectures.

Written Assignments.

Research paper on a topic related to the field of music therapy.

Listening assignments via online delivery.

Final Project.

Class Presentation.

Representative Text(s) -

Gfeller, Kate. An Introduction to Music Therapy Theory and Practice. American Music Therapy Association, 2008. Stevens, Christine. The Art and Heart of Drum Circles. Hal Leonard Corp., 2003. Other written materials provided by the instructor and delivered online.